ZSM-5 Sodium Content

Sodium content in ZSM-5 zeolite is specified as Na₂O and should be controlled below 0.1 wt% for most catalytic applications.

Why sodium content matters:

• Na⁺ ions occupy Brønsted acid sites, directly reducing catalytic activity
• Sodium accelerates framework dealumination under hydrothermal conditions
• Residual sodium can promote sintering and crystallinity loss at high temperature
• For FCC applications, Na₂O must be ≤0.1 wt% to avoid regenerator damage

Standard specifications:

• As-synthesized ZSM-5: Na₂O 1–3 wt% (template-filled, not yet exchanged)
• NH₄⁺-exchanged and calcined (H-form): Na₂O ≤0.05 wt% — our standard for catalytic grades
• Na-form for ion exchange applications: Na₂O 2–5 wt%

All our catalyst-grade ZSM-5 products are supplied in H-form with Na₂O ≤0.1 wt% as standard. Sodium content by XRF or ICP is included in every Certificate of Analysis. For applications requiring ultra-low sodium (≤0.02 wt%), additional ammonium exchange cycles can be performed — specify this requirement when requesting a quote.